Duane Allen Stevens

Duane Allen Stevens, age 86, of Lakeview, Michigan, passed away peacefully in Grapevine, Texas, on March 19, 2026, with his children, his sister, Linda and his nephew Roger Louck nearby. Born March 8, 1940, in Big Rapids, Michigan, to Ellwyn and Pauline (Peterson) Stevens, Duane had just recently celebrated his 86th birthday surrounded by family.

Duane was a longtime member of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Lakeview, where he served as both Congregational President and Elder. His faith and connection to the community and friends were steady parts of his life.

He attended St. Peter’s Lutheran School in Big Rapids and later Morley Agricultural School, graduating in 1958. During high school, he met Sandra Schoonmaker, who became the love of his life. They were married on June 28, 1958, and shared nearly 62 wonderful years together before her passing on May 11, 2019.

In 1962, Duane founded Lakeview Plumbing and Heating, building it from the ground up into a business he was proud of. He was known for his strong work ethic, practical know-how, and the kind of reliability that kept customers coming back for decades. Just as importantly, he genuinely enjoyed the people he worked with, forming lasting friendships with many in the construction community along the way. “Retirement” in 2017 didn’t slow him down much; it simply meant he could be a little more selective about the jobs he took.

Duane and Sandy built a life that was both active and deeply social, surrounded by a wide circle of close friends and family. In their younger years, that meant snowmobiling, boating, and summer softball leagues—activities that were as much about the camaraderie as the fun itself. In later years, they continued making memories on road trips, at campgrounds, at tractor and car shows, and at local get-togethers with good friends. Duane had a special fondness for vintage tractors and cars—especially those from 1940, his birth year—and took great pride in restoring and showing them.

A lifelong animal lover, Duane always had a soft spot for pets of all kinds, including the many cats (both adopted and self-appointed) that found their way to his garage over the years. In his last years, his loyal comfort dog Alex was a constant companion, rarely leaving his side both at home and during his time in Grapevine.

Duane is survived by his children: Mark (Pat) Stevens of Bossier City, Louisiana; Brenda (Frank) Byrne of Grapevine, Texas; and Connie Patton of Simpsonville, South Carolina; along with five grandchildren: Lindsey Bowers, Dave (Sarah) Schur, Dan (Hannah) Schur, Aaron (Taylor) Stevens, and Tyler (Tessa) Stevens; and twelve great-grandchildren, all who will carry his memory in their hearts. He is also survived by his sisters Kathy (Bob) Young of Arizona, Paulette (Jim) Hogarth of Ionia and Linda Johnson of Morley; sisters-in-law Judy Bell of Stanwood and Jean (Marvin) Bell of Stanwood; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family members—as well as a wide circle of dear friends who were an important part of his life.

He was preceded in death by his dear wife, Sandy; his parents; his parents-in-law; two brothers-in-law, Ted Bell and Steve Johnson; two sons-in-law, Pat Houghton and Bob Seibert; a grandson-in-law, Ryan Bowers; and his late-life companion, Diane Jones.

A Celebration of Life will be held in Lakeview this summer, with the date to be announced. Details will be shared on social media and in local publications.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of Michigan, Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, St. Judes or to a charity of your choice.